Hawai'i Volcano Update

The Hawai'i Tourism Authority has created informational resources to help answer any questions you may have about the status and impact of the Kilauea volcano on Hawai'i Island.
Click here for the most up-to-date information from the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Hawaii Tourism Authority has also put together a reference guide for visitors coming to Hawaii Island, Island of Hawaii – Kilauea Quick Facts and Infographic for answers to frequently asked questions about the current eruption, its location and how to enjoy the island of Hawaii.

As dramatic video footage is shown from the island of Hawaii of lava flowing, new fissures opening and ash plumes, Hawaii Governor David Ige reassured people worldwide that Kilauea volcano is being closely monitored and stated emphatically: "Travel is safe to the Hawaiian Islands."

None of the Hawaiian Islands are affected by Kilauea volcano except a remote area on the island of Hawaii's east side and the Kilauea Summit. Out of the island's 4,028 square miles, only a remote area of less than 10 square miles is affected - Leilani Estates and Lanipuna Gardens Subdivisions in Puna, on the island's east side. The district of Puna is approximately 500 square miles, or half the size of Rhode Island. This is more than 100 driving miles away from the western Kona Coast, where the Royal Kona Resort is located. This is the area furthest from the current activity.

Governor Ige noted, "All of Hawaii is open for business and welcoming visitors with the hospitality, aloha, warmth and picturesque settings visitors seek in our islands. This includes Hilo, Pahoa and the Kona and Kohala coasts on the island of Hawaii. The one area that people need to avoid is lower Puna where the eruption is ongoing."

George D. Szigeti, president and CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority, added that travel to and within the Hawaiian Islands is unimpeded by Kilauea volcano. "Summer is just a couple of weeks away and there is no reason for travelers to delay in booking their vacation plans. The number of flights serving Hawaii has never been greater and there is an abundance of choices for travelers to select in choosing the accommodations and activities they want to enjoy in the Hawaiian Islands."

All flights into the Kona and Hilo International Airports are operating normally.

All activities are operating normally except for those in the area affected by lava activity. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park has been closed as a precaution should a steam explosion occur in the crater.

Air quality on the island of Hawai'i remains largely unchanged except for the area where the volcanic activity is happening. Knowing travelers are expressing concerns about emissions from Kilauea volcano, Hawaii Governor David Ige emphasized that the air quality of the Hawaiian Islands is safe and should not dissuade people from booking vacations. Governor Ige stated, “Hawaii’s air quality is being closely monitored on a continuing basis by scientists, meteorologists and the Hawaii State Department of Health. This team of experts says the air quality in the Hawaiian Islands is safe for residents and visitors, except in the affected areas.